It is a common misconception that only people with oily skin suffer from acne. Even though it is true that oily skin types are more prone to acne, some people with dry skin also suffer from acne breakouts. But, how can you deal with dry skin and acne when most acne products cause irritation?

First of all, dry skin can flake and crack allowing acne bacteria to enter the skin. This problem is sometimes treated with harsh products that can make your skin even drier, so in order to keep your acne under control it is vital that you keep it moisturized.

Your daily cleansing routine should be modified to include the following steps:

Step One: Cleanse with Oil

Since dry skin can be sensitive to soapy cleansers, you should try using oil instead. You may believe that oil can promote more acne breakouts, however, a natural acne remedy can actually help prevent acne if it is a non-comedogenic oil used to cleanse skin.

Here is a simple home acne remedy that you can use. Combine 1/4 teaspoon of castor oil with 1/2 teaspoon of olive oil. Apply and massage for 2 to 3 minutes.

To remove the mask, apply a warm, moist washcloth on your face for a few minutes. Once the cloth has cooled, simply wipe the oil from your skin.

Step Two: Use Tea Tree oil for your Acne

One of the most common acne creams on the market is Benzoyl peroxide. However, it can irritate dry skin. A gentle substitute would be tea tree oil.

This type of product can be found in cream form or in oil form, and can be purchased at a health food store or online.

To use it, soak a cotton ball in water and add 3 to 4 drops of tea tree oil to the ball. Apply the diluted oil on the areas that are most prone to acne. You should dilute the oil before using, however, once your skin becomes accustomed to the oil, it can be applied directly without being diluted.

Step Three: Keep your Moisturizer Handy

By using the right amount of moisturizer, the oils in your skin will balance out. This can actually help reduce the frequency of acne breakouts. When looking for this type of product, try using an oil-free, non comedogenic formula to control the amount of oil you are applying to your face.

If your skin dries out during the day, you are welcomed to reapply as often as necessary. Unlike oily skin, dry skin can withstand being moisturized more than twice a day.

Other Options to help you Deal with Acne

You may choose to use traditional products designed for oily skin types. If this is the case, you should apply this type of product less often until your skin becomes accustomed to it, and follow-up with a thicker moisturizer.